10 Chapter 1 Entrepreneurial Careers Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Selecting a career is a major decision. Using the decision-making process, as shown in Figure 1-3, can help. 1. Define the challenge. It is always important to define the challenge or problem in clear terms before trying to solve it. This model can work for anything that needs to be solved. If creating a career plan, the challenge or problem is selecting a career path. 2. Gather the facts. What careers are available that match your interests? What careers would provide the income for the lifestyle you want? 3. Analyze the situation. What are your goals? Do you want to select a career path now to help guide your education? 4. Generate ideas. Write down all the career opportunities that fit your interests and meet your goals. 5. Consider the alternatives. Now that you have a list of career options, consider how each would meet your goals. 6. Make a decision. Decide which career path to take. You can always change your decision as your interests change. 7. Implement your decision. Start planning for the necessary education. Enroll in courses that will help you meet your career goals and save money for your education. Once you understand the decision-making process, you can apply what you have learned to creating a career plan. The first step is to complete a self-assessment. It is important to learn about yourself—your likes and dislikes, your abilities, and what you want from a career. Figure 1-3. Use this process when making important decisions. Decision-Making Process 1. Define the challenge 2. Gather the facts 3. Analyze the situation 4. Generate ideas 5. Consider the alternatives 6. Make a decision 7. Implement your decision g-stockstudio/Shutterstock.com Goodheart-Willcox Publisher